Continuous safety or belay system

ABSTRACT

A bifurcation method and system for a passive continuous belay system that allows for a user to select multiple pathways using intermediate tracks. A main track and the intermediate tracks provide a linear passive continuous belay using an anchor mechanism that is configured to grasp the outside of the structural member track, using rolling elements and/or low-friction sliding. The user may select multiple pathways using intermediate lateral tracks to provide Cartesian movement at designated (e.g., perpendicular) transition or junction. points.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional PatentApplication Ser. No. 62/067,931, filed on Oct. 23, 2014, entitled“CONTINUOUS SAFETY OR BELAY SYSTEM,” which is hereby incorporated byreference in its entirety

BACKGROUND

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to amusement attractions. Moreparticularly, the present invention relates to a challenge or ropecourse with a safety system that permits continuous travel by the useralong varying pathways without requiring the user to unhook from thesafety system.

2. Description of the Related Art

Ropes courses or other challenge or obstacles courses are a popularentertainment activity for both children and adults. Part of the thrillin traversing many of these courses is the high elevation above theground that a user travels over, for example, by stepping across alongpillars, columns, rope bridges, or the like. In order to increase usersafety against falling from such heights and potentially being injured,safety systems have been developed that are worn or otherwise fastenwith the user traversing the course that prevents the user from droppingto the ground. For example, many safety systems have taken the form ofbelts or vests worn by the user that are configured to clamp or fastenwith a rope or other securing element to a part of the attraction at oneend and to the user at the other end. Thus, even if a user loses theirbalance or footing while traversing the course, the safety system willkeep the user from falling beyond a certain distance, for example, bydangling the user in the air and allowing the user an opportunity toregain their footing.

Unfortunately, traditional ropes courses or other challenge or obstaclescourses require the user to traverse only along a linear pathway,without deviation, along the course due to the safety system constraintstypically being fastened and movable only along such travel path. Thelevel of excitement of the course may be reduced since freedom to moveabout the course as may be desired by users is prohibited. Many coursesthat do allow a user the freedom to choose a travel pathway also requirethe user to stop their movement on the course at a safe area orposition, unhook from the safety system that is connected along thefirst pathway, and then rehook to the safety system that extends alongthe desired second pathway. Not only does such a system slow down thenumber of users that may use the course, but also is inconvenient forusers who do not wish to have their play interrupted.

Thus, a safety or belay system is desired that would allow users thefreedom to traverse a ropes, challenge, or other obstacle course along avariety of user-chosen pathways without the inconvenience ofunhooking/rehooking to the safety or belay system. Such a system wouldideally provide a safe means of preventing injury to users, be reliablein operation and low in manufacturing expense while avoiding theabove-mentioned deficiencies of conventional safety systems.

SUMMARY

The present invention is related to a continuous safety system for useby participants navigating an aerial challenge course. In oneembodiment, a continuous safety system for coupling a user to anamusement attraction may include a first track, a second track that isseparate from the first track, a junction box that accepts the firsttrack and the second track, the junction box including a transitionsurface, and a safety mechanism having a support plate, the safetymechanism configured to couple with the user and travel along the firsttrack, the support plate configured to cooperate with the transitionsurface of the junction box, wherein the safety mechanism is configuredto be moveable between the first track and the second track within thejunction box based on the support plate cooperating with the transitionsurface.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The features, objects, and advantages of the present invention willbecome more apparent from the detailed description set forth below whentaken in conjunction with the drawings, wherein;

FIG. 1 shows a plurality of views of an amusement attraction includingan unharnessed section and a harnessed section utilizing a continuoussafety or belay system according to one embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 2 shows a plurality of views of an amusement attraction includingan unharnessed section and a harnessed section utilizing a continuoussafety or belay system according to one embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 3 shows a plurality of views of an amusement attraction including aharnessed section for traversing along play elements and utilizing acontinuous safety or belay system according to one embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 4 shows a plurality of views of an amusement attraction including aharnessed section for leaping between play elements and utilizing acontinuous safety or belay system according to one embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 5 shows a plurality of views of an amusement attraction including aharnessed section for leaping a large distance between play elements andutilizing a continuous safety or belay system according to oneembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 6 shows a plurality of views of an amusement attraction including aharnessed section incorporating a zipline and utilizing a continuoussafety or belay system according to one embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 7 shows a plurality of views of an amusement attraction including aharnessed section and utilizing a continuous safety or belay systemaccording to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 8 shows an isometric view of a sliding safety mechanism accordingto one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 9A shows a perspective view of a track of an amusement attractionusing a sliding safety mechanism;

FIG. 9B shows a perspective view of the track of the amusementattraction using the sliding safety mechanism of FIG. 9A with anattached lanyard;

FIG. 9C shows a perspective view of a pivoting track of an amusementattraction using a sliding safety mechanism;

FIG. 10A. shows a perspective view of a rolling safety mechanismaccording to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 10B shows a plurality of views of the rolling safety mechanism ofFIG. 10A according to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 11A shows a perspective view of a junction box for use with asliding safety or belay mechanism according to one embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 11B shows a side view of the junction box of FIG. 11A according toone embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 11C shows a side view of the junction box of FIG. 11A with anattached safety or belay mechanism according to one embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 11D shows a plurality of views of the junction box of FIG. 11Aaccording to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 11E shows a perspective view of the use or operation of a safety orbelay system with a junction box according to one embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 12 shows a perspective view of a rolling safety mechanism on atubular track according to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 13 shows a plurality of views of a rolling safety mechanismconfigured to operate with a junction box according to one embodiment ofthe present invention;

FIG. 14 shows a perspective view of a body for a rolling safetymechanism with corresponding URES displacement test data

FIG. 15 shows a perspective view of a body for a rolling safetymechanism with corresponding static nodal stress test data;

FIG. 16 shows a plurality of views of a passing lane box for use with asafety or belay mechanism according to one embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 17 shows a perspective view of a turntable box for use with asafety or belay mechanism according to one embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 18 shows a bottom perspective view of a slider clamp track with arotatable component for use with a safety or belay mechanism accordingto one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 19 shows a perspective view of a slider clamp track element with arotatable component for use with a safety or belay mechanism accordingto one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 20 shows an exploded perspective view of a slider clamp trackelement with a rotatable component for use with a safety or belaymechanism according to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 21 shows a schematic of handshake operation for an amusementattraction utilizing a safety or belay mechanism according to oneembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 22 shows dimension information for I-beam structural supports thatmay be used in a harnessed course or unharnessed course of an amusementattraction according to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 23 shows a plurality of harnessed activities that may be performedbetween sections of track in a harnessed course of an amusementattraction according to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 24 shows handshaking operation between a trolley and a trackaccording to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 25 shows handshaking operation between a trolley and a trackaccording to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 26 shows handshaking operation between a trolley and a trackaccording to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 27A is a perspective view of a turntable assembly according to oneembodiment of the invention;

FIG. 27B is a top view of a turntable assembly according to oneembodiment of the invention;

FIG. 27C is a perspective view of a turntable assembly and supportstructure according to one embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 27D is a side view of a turntable assembly and support structureaccording to one embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 28A is a side view of a portion of an overhead belay trackaccording to one embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 28B is a cross-sectional view of an overhead belay track accordingto one embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 29A illustrates a perspective view of a curved overhead belay tracksegment according to one embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 29B illustrates a top view of a curved overhead belay track segmentaccording to one embodiment of the invention; and

FIG. 29C illustrates a side view of a curved overhead belay tracksegment according to one embodiment of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The detailed description of exemplary embodiments herein makes referenceto the accompanying drawings and pictures, which show the exemplaryembodiment by way of illustration and its best mode. While theseexemplary embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable thoseskilled in the art to practice the invention, it should he understoodthat other embodiments may be realized and that logical and mechanicalchanges may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of theinvention. Thus, the detailed description herein is presented forpurposes of illustration only and not of limitation. For example, thesteps recited in any of the method or process descriptions may beexecuted in any order and are not limited to the order presented.Moreover, any of the functions or steps may be outsourced to orperformed by one or more third parties. Furthermore, any reference tosingular includes plural embodiments, and any reference to more than onecomponent may include a singular embodiment.

Turning first to FIG. 1, a plurality of views of an amusement attraction100 are shown, including an unharnessed section 102 (e.g., a series ofplatforms that users may jump between with a safety netting disposedunderneath) and a harnessed section 104 utilizing a continuous safety orbelay system. In the unharnessed section 102, users are free to traversethe area without the need of a safety system that couples the user tothe amusement attraction, for example, to aid in preventing injury. Inthe harnessed section 104, users are coupled 106 to the amusementattraction 100 for safety purposes. As discussed in greater detailherein, the continuous safety or belay system may allow users totraverse among multiple pathways, at the users' discretion, withoutrequiring the users to unhook and/or rehook to the safety or belaysystem. Although FIG. 1 illustrates one potential setup or design forthe amusement attraction 100 that brings together both the unharnessedsection 102 and the harnessed section 104 in one attraction, in analternative embodiment, any of a variety of possible setups or designsmay be used. For example, in one embodiment, no unharnessed section 102may be included as part of the amusement attraction 100.

In one embodiment, different tracks or travel paths may each correspondto a different type of activity or challenge. For example, a first trackmay include or lead through a rope bridge, a second track may include orlead through a zipline, a third track may include or lead through avertical drop activity, a fourth track may include or lead through avertical climbing activity, etc. Thus, a user of the amusementattraction may choose to follow the particular track or travel path thatleads to or through the activity or challenge that they desire.Moreover, if one activity is particularly congested by a multitude ofusers, such user may opt to follow a different track or travel paththrough a different activity until the congestion clears. Tracks ortravel paths may extend throughout the usable space of the amusementattraction (e.g., horizontal or substantially beams or tracks, such as aropes course, may connect with a vertical ascent, such as a climbing orrock wall, which may connect to a diagonal descent, such as a zip line,which may connect to a diagonal ascent, such as a sloped track, andetc.). In an alternative embodiment, any or all of the above describedexemplary combinations or permutations of ride activities or challengesmay be included and/or combined with additional ride elements.

The unharnessed section 102 of the amusement attraction 100 may allowusers participating within its borders without harnesses to follow,direct, or otherwise interact with those in the harnessed section 104 ofthe amusement attraction 100. For example, an activity in theunharnessed section 102 may be interwoven in and around activities inthe harnessed section 104 so as to create a more exciting or thrillingride experience for users of both the unharnessed section 102 and theharnessed section 104. Parents or older users on the harnessed section104 activities may be able to simultaneously keep an eye on children oryounger users in the unharnessed section 102 without being required toidly stand next to the amusement attraction 100. In one embodiment,users of the unharnessed section 102 may be allowed to interact withride elements (e.g., buttons, switches, knobs, etc) that act to modify aportion of the harnessed section 104 (moving platforms, gusts of air,etc.). In certain embodiments, users in the unharnessed section 102 mayonly be permitted to engage in the activities of the unharnessed section102 independent of the harnessed section 104 users or activities.I-beams may be used to provide strong, structural support for featuresor activities in either the harnessed section 104 and/or the unharnessedsection 102 (see exemplary dimensional information for such I-beams inFIG. 22).

FIG. 2 shows a plurality of views of an alternative amusement attraction200 including an unharnessed section 202 (e.g., a series of platforms orbridges that users may traverse across) and a harnessed section 204utilizing a continuous safety or belay system, the same as or similar tothose discussed above. In the unharnessed section 202, users are free totraverse the area without the need of a safety system that couples theuser to the amusement attraction, for example, to aid in preventinginjury. In the harnessed section 204, users are coupled to the amusementattraction 200 for safety purposes. As discussed in greater detailherein, the continuous safety or belay system may allow users totraverse among multiple pathways, at the users' discretion, withoutrequiring the users to unhook and/or rebook to the safety or belaysystem. Although FIG. 2 illustrates one potential setup or design forthe amusement attraction 200 that includes the unharnessed section 202with the harnessed section 204, in an alternative embodiment, any of avariety of possible setups or designs may be used.

FIG. 3 shows a plurality of views of an amusement attraction 300including a harnessed section 302 for traversing along play elements(e.g., along ripe bridges, rope stairs, etc.) and utilizing a continuoussafety or belay system, as discussed in greater detail herein. In theharnessed section 302, users are coupled (e.g., via a rope and/or trackcoupling element) 304 to a track of the amusement attraction 300 forsafety purposes. As discussed in greater detail herein, the continuoussafety or belay system may allow users to traverse among multiplepathways or tracks, at the users' discretion, without requiring theusers to unhook and/or rebook to the safety or belay system. AlthoughFIG. 3 illustrates one potential setup or design for the amusementattraction 300 that includes the harnessed section 302, in analternative embodiment, any of a variety of possible setups or designsmay be used.

FIG. 4 shows a plurality of views of an amusement attraction 400including a harnessed section 402 utilizing a continuous safety or belaysystem, as discussed in greater detail herein, that allows a user toleap or climb while across gaps (e.g., between poles or columns, fromone platform to another, etc.) While located at an elevation above afloor or lower surface of the amusement attraction 400. In the harnessedsection 402, users are coupled (e.g., via a rope and/or track couplingelement) 404 to the amusement attraction 400 for safety purposes. Asdiscussed in greater detail herein, the continuous safety or belaysystem may allow users to traverse among multiple pathways, at theusers' discretion, without requiring the users to unhook and/or rehookto the safety or belay system, Although FIG. 4 illustrates one potentialsetup or design for the amusement attraction 400 that includes theharnessed section 402, in an alternative embodiment, any of a variety ofpossible setups or designs may be used.

FIG. 5 shows a plurality of views of an amusement attraction 500including a harnessed section 502 utilizing a continuous safety or belaysystem, as discussed in greater detail herein, that allows a user toleap or slide a long distance across a wide gap (e.g., from a firstplatform 510 to a second platform 512 located beyond the jumpingcapabilities of a user, etc.) while located at an elevation above afloor or lower surface of the amusement attraction 500. The user leapsfrom the first platform MO and slides or rolls along a zip line or othercomponent 514 towards the second platform 512. In the harnessed section502, users are coupled (e.g., via a rope and/or track coupling element)504 to the amusement attraction 500 for safety purposes. As discussed ingreater detail herein, the continuous safety or belay system may allowusers to traverse among multiple pathways, at the users' discretion,without requiring the users to unhook and/or rehook to the safety orbelay system. Although FIG. 5 illustrates one potential setup or designfor the amusement attraction 500 that includes the harnessed section502, in an alternative embodiment, any of a variety of possible setupsor designs may be used.

FIG. 6 shows a plurality of views of an amusement attraction 600including a harnessed section 602 utilizing a continuous safety or belaysystem, as discussed in greater detail herein, which allows a user toslide along a zipline located at an elevation above a floor or lowersurface of the amusement attraction 600. The user travels along thezipline from one portion of the amusement attraction. 600 to anotherportion (e.g., at a fast rate of speed). In the harnessed section 602,users are coupled (e.g., via a rope and/or track coupling element) 604to the amusement attraction 600 for safety purposes. As discussed ingreater detail herein, the continuous safety or belay system may allowusers to traverse among multiple pathways, at the users' discretion,without requiring the users to unhook and/or rehook to the safety orbelay system. Although FIG. 6 illustrates one potential setup or designfor the amusement attraction 600 that includes the harnessed section602, in an alternative embodiment, any of a variety of possible setupsor designs may be used.

FIG. 7 shows a plurality of views of an amusement attraction 700including a harnessed section 702 utilizing a continuous safety or belaysystem, as discussed in greater detail herein, which allows a user toclimb, slide, or otherwise interact with a variety of differing featuresor activities of the amusement attraction 700. In the harnessed section702, users are coupled (e.g., via a rope and/or track coupling element)to the amusement attraction 700 for safety purposes. As discussed ingreater detail herein, the continuous safety or belay system may allowusers to traverse among multiple pathways, at the users' discretion,without requiring the users to unhook and/or rehook to the safety orbelay system. Although FIG. 7 illustrates one potential setup or designfor the amusement attraction 700 that includes the harnessed section702, in an alternative embodiment, any of a variety of possible setupsor designs may be used.

In certain embodiments, any of the above described features for FIGS.1-7 (e.g., leaping, traversing, ziplines, etc.) may be incorporated intoany of a variety of designs for a desired amusement attraction.Utilizing the continuous safety or belay system, as described in greaterdetail herein, a user may participate in any and/or all of the featuresor activities of a given amusement attraction without needing todisconnect or reconnect to the safety or belay system. Thus, users areprovided additional freedom to safely traverse an amusement attractionas they desire without being inconvenienced by the design of the safetysystems during their traversal of the ride.

Turning next to FIG. 8, an isometric view of a sliding safety mechanism800 is shown according to one embodiment of the present invention. Thesliding safety mechanism 800 includes a body 801 coupled with a lowfriction sleeve 802 (e.g., polymer). The sleeve 802 permits slidingmotion of the safety mechanism 800 along a track with reduced frictionor wear. A support plate 803 is coupled with the body 801 and provides asurface or component for cooperating with one or more surfaces orcomponents of a junction box or other transitioning structure that isused for transitioning between tracks as desired by the user, forexample, as discussed in greater detail herein in FIGS. 11A-11D. Ananchor ring 805 that defines an opening 810 is connected with the body801. The opening 810 of the anchor ring 805 permits a user to connectwith the safety mechanism 800, for example via a clip and/or rope thatalso is held, fastened, or worn by the user. A plurality of trackkeyholes 804 permit the transition from one track to another, asdiscussed in greater detail below, for example in FIGS. 11A-11D, throughthe use of a junction box or assembly.

FIG. 9A shows a perspective view of a track 900 of an amusementattraction using a sliding safety mechanism 910 and FIG. 9B shows aperspective view of the track 900 of the amusement attraction using thesliding safety mechanism 910 of FIG. 9A with an attached lanyard 950.With reference to FIGS. 9A and 9B, a user of the amusement attractionmay wear a belt, vest, or other harness that is configured to couplewith the lanyard 950 such that the user may traverse on obstacles 930while safely connected to a track that includes a tubular element 920upon which the sliding safety mechanism 910 may slide along. If the userloses their footing, instead of falling off of the obstacles 930, thesliding safety mechanism 910 and track 900 keep the user from droppingan elevation to a lower floor or level, lessening the risk of injury.

FIG. 9C shows a perspective view of a pivoting track system 960 of anamusement attraction that uses a sliding safety mechanism 965. A usermay be connected, for example via a rope or lanyard 962 that connectswith a portion of the sliding safety mechanism 965 via a clamp or otherconnecting element 964. The pivoting track system 960 allows a user totravel along an entrance track 970 via sliding of the sliding safetymechanism 965 and then choose whether to continue movement along a firstexit track 980 or a second exit track 990 via a pivoting portion 995that is configured to pivot, swivel, or twist 996 between the first exittrack 980 and the second exit track 990. In an alternative embodiment,greater numbers of exit tracks may be pivoted between by a pivotingportion. The pivoting portion 995 may be moved into position manually bythe user and/or by staff of the amusement attraction or via anelectronic system controlled by the user and/or by staff of theamusement attraction. A key notch 998 may be disposed on one or more ofthe first exit track 980 and/or second exit track 990 in order tofacilitate a more secure connection with the pivoting portion 995.Bearing supports 999 may be used to provide additional stability orsupport for the rotating elements of or adjacent to the pivoting portion995.

FIGS. 10A and 10B show various views of a rolling safety mechanism 1000.The rolling safety mechanism 1000 may include features or operate in amanner that is the same as or similar to those previously discussed. Forexample, instead of sliding along a track (e.g., see the sliding safetymechanism 800 of FIG. 8), the rolling safety mechanism 1000 mayincorporate one or more rollers 1010 that are configured to rotate orroll along a track (see, for example, FIG. 12). Other aspects of therolling safety mechanism may be similar to those safety systemspreviously discussed (e.g., the rolling safety mechanism 1000 mayinclude an anchor ring 1020 defining an opening therein 1025 for a userto connect to the rolling safety mechanism 1000 via a rope, lanyard,etc.

FIGS 11A-11D show various views of one embodiment of a junction box 1100that allows a user to transition from a first track to a second track inan amusement attraction without requiring the user to unhook from and/orrehook to a safety or belay system in conjunction with the transition.In one example, the junction box 1100 may be configured to operate witha sliding safety system, such as the sliding safety system 800previously described for FIG. 8. Features of the junction box 1100 mayalso be used in an alternative embodiment that works with other safetysystem designs (e.g., the rolling safety system 1000 previouslydiscussed). The junction box 1100 and any associated sliding safetysystem may include features that are the same as or similar to thosepreviously discussed.

FIG. 11A shows a perspective view of the junction box 1100. FIG. 11BShows a side view of the junction box 1100 without an attached safety orbelay mechanism while FIG. 11C shows a side view of the junction box1100 with an attached safety or belay mechanism. For example, a firsttrack 1102 may travel to a first activity or feature of an amusementattraction and a second track 1104 may travel to a second activity orfeature of the amusement attraction. A user that is sliding along thefirst track 1102, for example, using the sliding safety system 800, maywish to transfer from the first track 1102 to the second track 1104 inorder to travel to the second activity or feature. In a conventionalsafety or belay system this would not be possible unless the secondactivity or feature was already located along the first track and/orwould require the user to disconnect from the safety system and/or thefirst track and reconnect to the safety system and/or the second track.

As shown in FIG. 11A, however, the junction box 1100 operates to permitthe user to interface with lateral support tracks 1120 that extend at anangle (e.g. perpendicular) to the first track 1102 and/or the secondtrack 1104. In this manner, keyholes in the sliding safety system (e.g.,keyholes 804 as shown in FIG. 8) may cooperate with the support tracks1120 to allow the user to transition from the first track 1102 to thesecond track 1104, or vice versa, without having to perform anydisconnections from the sliding safety system. After traversing alongthe lateral support tracks 1120 to a desired main track (e.g., the firsttrack 1102 or the second track 1104), the user may engage with suchtrack and continue along its pathway (e.g., via a low-friction sleeve802 that encompasses all or a portion of the track, as seen in FIG. 8).

With reference to FIGS. 11B-11D, in one example, operation allows aparticipant to navigate an aerial challenge course. The participant issecured in a harness (e.g., a full-body harness) that is attached with alanyard to a sliding belay mechanism 1150, such as the sliding safetysystem 800 of FIG. 8, via an anchor ring 1140 (e.g., the anchor ring 805of FIG. 8). The sliding belay mechanism 1150 slides along a track (e.g.,horizontal or nearly horizontal), that may be manufactured of roundtubing, above or through various challenge elements of the amusementcourse. In one embodiment, the track may feature curves and/or directionchanges (e.g., with radiuses greater than 20 inches). The sliding belaymechanism 1150 can feature low-friction features (e.g., the low frictionsleeve 802 of FIG. 8) or rolling elements (e.g., as discussed in FIG. 9)in order to secure and smoothly travel along the track. In oneembodiment, the track may be supported directly above via a weldedfull-length section of vertically oriented flatbar that is bolted tosupporting structures. In such an embodiment, the sliding belaymechanism 1150 may feature a gap in order to clear this flatbar whentraveling adjacent to it along the track.

The participant is allowed to safely transition between one or more(e.g., parallel) tracks, such as the first track 1102 and the secondtrack 1104, while under continuous, passive belay at the junction box1100. As the sliding belay mechanism 1150 enters the junction box 1100,one or more curved support plates 1160 (e.g., support plate 803 of FIG.8) engages on the top of the lateral support tracks 1120 as the slidingbelay mechanism 1150 travels through a gap between the lateral supporttracks 1120 to the centerline of the junction box 1100. As the slidingbelay mechanism 1150 enters the centerline of the junction box 1100, itleaves the track and is supported by the one or more support plates1160. A clamp is positioned by sprung detent ball plugs 1130 (see FIG.11B) to help prevent twisting.

Once at the centerline of the junction box 1100, the keyholes (e.g.,keyholes 804 as shown in FIG. 8) in the sliding belay mechanism 1150line up with the lateral support tracks 1120 and the sliding belaymechanism 1150 can now travel along the pathway defined by the lateralsupport tracks 1120 (e.g., perpendicular to the main track) underpassive, continuous belay. Once at the centerline of the intended track(e.g., the first track 1102 and/or the second track 1104), the slidingbelay mechanism 1150 is positioned using the spring detent ball plugs1130. The sliding belay mechanism 1150 can now exit the junction box1100 through a gap in the lateral belay tracks 1120.

FIG. 11D shows a plurality of views of the junction box 1100. Thejunction box includes a body 1161, a track mount 1162, and a track mountsupport bracket 1163 for connecting the junction box 1100 with the trackof an amusement attraction. FIG. 11E shows a perspective view of the useor operation 1170 of a safety or belay mechanism 1180 with a junctionbox 1190. The safety or belay mechanism 1180 and/or the junction box1190 may include features, uses, and/or operation that are the same asor similar to those previously discussed.

FIG. 12 shows a perspective view 1200 of a rolling safety mechanism 1202on a tubular track 1204. The rolling safety mechanism 1202 and/or thetubular track 1204 may include features that are the same as or similarto those previously discussed. As shown, a plurality of rolling elements1230 are configured to cooperate and roll along the track 1204 such thatthe rolling safety mechanism 1202 travels down the track 1204 with auser. The user may be connected to the rolling safety mechanism 1202 byany of a variety of connection means, such as a lanyard 1220 or any of avariety of other connecting components (e.g., standardized components,off-the-shelf components, and/or a variety of other specific orspecialized connecting components).

FIG. 13 shows a plurality of views 1300 of a rolling safety mechanism1310 configured to roll along one or more tracks (e.g., track 1320 andtrack 1325) and cooperate with a junction box 1330 in an amusementattraction. The rolling safety mechanism 1310, the track 1320, and/orthe junction box 1330 may include features that are the same as orsimilar to those previously discussed. As shown, the rolling safetymechanism 1310 includes a plurality of rolling elements that makerolling contact with the track 1320 so that the rolling safety mechanismmay travel along the track 1320 with a user. Upon encountering thejunction box 1330, a user connected with the rolling safety mechanismmay choose among a plurality of tracks with which to connect.

In one embodiment, as shown, the rolling safety mechanism 1310 includesone or more support plates 1340 (e.g., indexing plates) that areconfigured to make contact with one or more translation rails 1350 thatare positioned laterally or otherwise adjacent and between tracks of theamusement attraction in the junction box 1330. For example, if therolling safety mechanism 1310 (e.g., a trolley) is traveling along thefirst track 1320 and, upon reaching the junction box 1330, the userdecides to switch to the second track 1325, the user may cause therolling safety mechanism 1310 to travel along the translation rails 1350via sliding contact with the support plates 1340 until the rollingsafety mechanism 1310 is lined up with the second track 1325. At thistime, the user may cause the rolling safety mechanism 1310 to travelalong the second track 1325 and the rolling safety mechanism 1310 nolonger makes contact with any translation rails 1350 via the supportplates 1340. In certain embodiments, friction may be lessened during thesliding contact of the support plates 1340 and the translation rails1350 (e.., ball bearings may be coupled or embedded with the supportplates 1340 and/or translation rails 1350, low friction materials may beused or applied to the support plates 1340 and/or translation rails1350, etc.).

Any of a variety of track shapes or configurations may be used inconjunction with the junction box to allow a user to choose a desiredpath for travel in the amusement attraction. For example, straighttracks may be used, or the tracks may be curved, for example, as shown.The user may choose to engage with any of a variety of tracks bytraversing along the translation rails 1350 of the junction box 1330.

FIG. 14 shows a perspective view 1400 of a body 1402 for a rollingsafety mechanism with corresponding URES displacement test data 1404.FIG. 15 shows a perspective view 1500 of a body 1502 for a rollingsafety mechanism with corresponding static nodal stress test data 1504.

FIG. 16 shows a plurality of views of a passing lane box 1600 for usewith a safety or belay mechanism. The passing lane box 1600 and/or thesafety or belay mechanism may include features that are the same as orsimilar to those previously discussed. For example, the passing lane boxmay include features of the previously described junction boxes suchthat a user can opt to change to a different track without unhookingfrom a safety device while on an amusement attraction. In this manner, auser who is behind another user on a track 1605 of an amusementattraction need not wait for the user in front of them to finish theiractivity or more out of the way. Instead, the user in back may choose topass the front user by switching to a parallel or other track.Alternatively, the passing box may allow for the user in front to stepout of the way of a user behind them to a waiting track or space 1610and wait for such user to pass before switching back to the originaltrack 1605 and continuing with their activity. Such switching may beaided by gravity such that the user can begin movement towards the othertrack at a junction point and gravity will aid in securing the safety orbelay mechanism to other track.

FIG. 17 shows a perspective view of a turntable box 1700 for use with asafety or belay mechanism according to one embodiment of the presentinvention. The turntable box 1700 and/or the safety or belay mechanismmay include features that are the same as or similar to those previouslydiscussed. For example, the turntable box may include features of thepreviously described junction boxes or passing boxes such that a usercan opt to change to a different track without unhooking from a safetydevice while on an amusement attraction. The turntable box 1700 may havea rotatable portion 1702 in its center such that a user connected withthe safety or belay mechanism (e.g., that cooperates with a slot 1750 ina first 1720 track of the turntable box 1700) can slide along one trackand then rotatably choose a new track to travel along upon reaching theturntable box 1700 via the rotatable portion 1702. In one example, auser may slide along the first track 1720 and position the safety orbelay mechanism into a slot 1760 in the rotatable portion 1702. The usermay then manually rotate (e.g., via crank, a connected electronic systemthat is manipulatable via user control such as a button or switch, orvia the user's own body movement or inertia) or the turntable willautomatically rotate the rotatable portion 1702 such that the slot 1760of the rotatable portion 1702 lines up with a slot (not shown) of asecond track 1710 or a third track 1730. The user may then continuetravel along such chosen track.

FIG. 18 shows a bottom perspective view of a slider clamp track 1800with a rotatable component 1802 for use with a safety or belaymechanism. The slider clamp track 1800 with the rotatable component 1802and/or the safety or belay mechanism 1804 may include features that arethe same as or similar to those previously discussed, for example, theturntable box 1700. In this fashion, a user may choose a desired track(e.g., tracks 1810, 1820, 1830) for which to travel along while on anamusement attraction.

FIG. 19 shows a perspective view of a slider clamp track element 1900with a rotatable component 1902 for use with a safety or belaymechanism. The slider clamp track element 1900 with the rotatablecomponent 1902 may include features that are the same as or similar tothose previously discussed. FIG. 20 shows an exploded perspective viewof a slider clamp track element 2000 with a rotatable component for usewith a safety or belay mechanism. The slider clamp track element 2000may include features that are the same as or similar to those previouslydiscussed.

FIG. 21 shows a schematic describing a handshake operation 2100 for anamusement attraction utilizing a safety or belay mechanism. At schematicstep 2110, a trolley is located on a fixed, main section of track. Atschematic step 2120, at the end of the track are located one or morespring-loaded end stops which prevent the trolley from leaving thetrack. A track section which is mobile, used to carry the trolley fromone fixed track to another, or for any other purpose, has not yetengaged with the first fixed track. At schematic step 2130, the mobiletrack section has moved closer to engagement with the first fixed tracksection, but is not yet fully engaged.

At schematic step 2140, the mobile track section is fully engaged withthe first fixed track. At schematic step 2150, the trolley moves fromthe first fixed track section to the mobile track section. At schematicstep 2160, the trolley has passed and the first fixed track and themobile track are now disengaged. At schematic step 2170, the mobiletrack moves away, carrying the trolley with it. The trolley is securedfrom falling out of the mobile track by spring-loaded end-stops at bothends of the mobile track.

FIG. 22 shows dimension information 2200 for I-beam structural supportsthat may be used in a harnessed course or unharnessed course of anamusement attraction. The harnessed or unharnessed course of theamusement attraction may include features that are the same as orsimilar to those previously discussed. FIG. 23 shows a plurality ofharnessed activities 2300 that may be performed between sections oftrack in a harnessed course of an amusement attraction. For example,vertical climbing 2310 from one track to another track, sliding on a zipline 2320 from one track to another track, and/or vertical dropping 2330from one track to another track may be activities that can be performedby a user on the amusement attraction without having to hook or unhookfrom a safety system. The harnessed course and/or harnessed activitiesmay include features that are the same as or similar to those previouslydiscussed.

FIGS. 24-26 show handshaking operation between a trolley and one or moretrack or track elements. In FIG. 24, a handshaking system 2400 is shownfor a trolley 2410 or other safety mechanism. The handshaking operation,trolley (e.g., safety or belay mechanism), track, and/or track elementsmay include features that are the same as or similar to those previouslydiscussed. A first zone 2410 (e.g., having a track for movement of thetrolley 2410) is separated from a second zone 2430 (e.g., having a trackfor movement of the trolley 2410) via one or more gates 2440. In oneembodiment, the gates may be physical structures that block movement ofthe trolley 2410 and/or a user of the trolley 2410 from transitioningbetween the first zone 2420 and the second zone 2430. In order toincrease safety for users during transition, the handshaking system 2400only allows the one or more gates 2440 to open when they are within apredetermined vicinity to one another. In addition, the one or moregates 2440 are not permitted to disengage from one another (e.g., if atrack in the first zone 2410 and/or the second zone 2430 is a moveabletrack that moves closer to the first zone 2410 and/or the second zone2430 to facilitate transfer of the trolley 2410 between the first zone2410 and the second zone 2430. Lastly, the one or more gates 2440 may beprohibited from closing or otherwise blocking the trolley 2410 if thetrolley 2410 is currently transitioning between the first zone 2420 andthe second zone 2430.

FIG. 25 shows mechanical operation 2500 of one example of a handshakingsystem. The handshaking operation, trolley (e.g., safety or belaymechanism), track, and/or track elements may include features that arethe same as or similar to those previously discussed. As shown, atrolley 2510 may be configured to move from a first track 2520 to asecond track 2430. A first latching component 2540 (e.g., a hook or aloop) coupled with the first track 2520 is configured to engage with asecond latching component 2550 (e.g., a corresponding hook or a loop)coupled with the second track 2530. Thus, the first track 2520 and thesecond track 2530 may be brought without a predetermined and stabledistance of one another such that the trolley 2510 can transfer from thefirst track 2520 to the second track 2530 or vice versa.

The first latching component 2540 and/or the second latching component2550 may also include one or more teeth 2560, or receptacles in analternative embodiment, that are configured to engage with a portion ofthe trolley 2510 for aiding in the movement of the trolley 2510 from onetrack to another. In one embodiment, the first and/or second latchingcomponents (2540, 2550) may be safety systems that are moveable upon thefirst and/or second tracks (2520, 2530), such that the trolley linkswith the safety systems that operate or perform other activities of theamusement attraction (e.g., vertical drops, ziplines, etc.). As shown inthe top view of FIG. 25, certain tracks may have latching components ateach end of a track segment in certain embodiments.

FIG. 26 FIG. 25 shows mechanical operation 2600 of one example of alatching system for movement of a trolley 2610 between a plurality oftracks. The latching system, trolley (e.g., safety or belay mechanism),track, and/or track elements may include features that are the same asor similar to those previously discussed. As shown, the trolley 2610 maybe configured to switch from a first track that is coupled with a firstlatching element 2620 (e.g., a loop) to a second track that is coupledwith a second latching element 2630 (e.g., a hook). The first latchingelement 2620 and the second latching element 2630 are configured toremoveably engage with one another when within a predetermined distanceof each other. The second latching element 2630 includes a nose 2640that is configured to engage with a nub 2650 of the trolley 2610. Thus,after engagement of the nose 2640 with the nub 2650 and transition ofthe trolley 2610 from the first track to the second track, the first andsecond tracks, and their corresponding latching elements, may disconnectfrom one another. The first latching element 2620 may also include anose 2660 for connecting with a nub of the trolley 2610 in order tofacilitate movement of the trolley 2610 from the second track to thefirst track, In an alternative embodiment, any of a variety ofconnecting means for the tracks and/or latching elements may be used.

Any of a variety of amusement attractions may be designed that use anyor all of the above described concepts. For example, the safety or belaysystem may attach at any of a variety of locations to a user (e.g., attheir waist in front, at their waist in the rear, may be rotatablearound their waist utilizing a belt that allows for movement, such asthrough bail bearings, etc.). In addition, a tracking system (e.g.,through the use of biometrics or Radio Frequency Identification (RFID)tags) may be used to provide additional sources of entertainment forusers. For example, participants may achieve points or stamps or otherrewards based upon their successful completion of various gameactivities that are tracked by the tracking system of the amusementattraction.

In some embodiments, portions of various track systems and componentscan include elevated towers, junctions, and track segments. A series ofelevated challenge events can be connected by small towers withplatforms to create a linear or matrix-style circuit. Further, in someembodiments, each challenge event can include an overhead track toprovide a passive continuous belay using a translating attachmentmechanism in the form of a sliding clamp. In some embodiments, at thejunctions in the belay track, or at points requiring an acute angledcorner, a turntable assembly can be provided to allow the slider clampto switch tracks without interrupting the passive continuous belay.Moreover, in some embodiments, curved transfer tracks can be used tojoin turntable assemblies over short spans on the platform. For example,FIG. 27A is a perspective view of a turntable assembly according to oneembodiment of the invention. The turntable assembly can comprise one ormore segments or portions of a belay track including at least somecurved portions to enable a rider to switch tracks without interruptingthe passive continuous belay. The turntable assembly can be supported onan elevated track support system comprising a main support pylon and oneor more coupled track supports extending from the main support pylon.The example embodiment shown in FIG. 27A includes two track supportsextending from the main support pylon, however other embodiments cancomprise additional numbers of track supports to accommodate varioustrack configurations. In some embodiments, the turntable assembly caninclude further structural support elements to provide stability to thebelay track. For example, as shown partially in FIG. 27A, and shown inFIG. 27B illustrating a top view of a turntable assembly according toone embodiment of the invention, in some embodiments, some portions ofthe belay track can be coupled to the main support pylon using one ormore support stabilizers. In some embodiments, one or more supportstabilizers can extend from a portion of the belay track to coupleadjacent the top end of the main support pylon. Further, in someembodiments, one or more support stabilizers can extend from a portionof the belay track to couple to the main support pylon substantiallyparallel with the belay track.

FIG. 27C is a perspective view of a turntable assembly and supportstructure, and FIG. 27D is a side view of a turntable assembly andsupport structure according to one embodiment of the invention. In someembodiments, various support components can be coupled to the mainsupport pylon. For example, some embodiments can include a slider clampcoupled to the main support pylon. Further, in some embodiments, somesections or portions of the main support pylon can include at least oneangled region. For example, as depicted in FIG. 27D, in someembodiments, the main support pylon can comprise a first segmentextending from a ground surface angled so that the first segment is notperpendicular to the ground surface. In some embodiments, the firstsegment can be coupled to a second segment that is coupled to theturntable assembly. In some further embodiments, the second segment canextend from the first segment at an angle so that the second segment issubstantially perpendicular to the ground surface. In some otherembodiments, the main support pylon can comprise more or less numbers ofsegments positioned at similar or differing angles relative to theground surface.

In some embodiments, overhead belay tracks feature a circular-profilebelay track suspended from a length of flatbar. In some embodiments,challenge event belay tracks can include a structural member, forexample an I-Beam, to support the belay track. In some embodiments,shorter transfer tracks can use the circular profile only and flatbar,supported at each end, depending on the length of the span. In someembodiments, the slider clamp can translate laterally along these belaytracks to provide a passive continuous belay for the patron at all timeswhen at height. For example, FIG. 28A is a side view of a portion of anoverhead belay track, and FIG. 28B is a cross-sectional view of anoverhead belay track according to one embodiment of the invention. Insome embodiments, a portion or segment of a belay track can comprise anI-beam support member comprising a central member coupled to twosubstantially perpendicular cross-members comprising an uppercross-member and a lower cross-member. In some embodiments, the I-beamsupport member can support at least one belay track. As shown in FIGS.28A and 28B, in some embodiments, a belay track can couple to the I-beamsupport member, extending from the I-beam support member and the lowercross-member. As depicted in FIG. 28B, in some embodiments, a sliderclamp can be coupled to the slide member of the belay track, and canextend away from the I-beam support member.

As described earlier, some portions of the belay track can includecurved segments, and in some embodiments, a belay transfer track cancomprise a curved segment. For example, FIG. 29A illustrates aperspective view of a curved overhead belay track segment, FIG. 29Billustrates a top view of a curved overhead belay track segment, andFIG. 29C illustrates a side view of a curved overhead belay tracksegment according to one embodiment of the invention. As illustrated, insome embodiments, the belay track segment can comprise a substantiallycurved track element coupled to a track support beam. Further, in someembodiments, each end of the belay track segment can include a couplingsegment that is configured to couple to other portions of a tracksystem, including linear track segments, other curved track segments,transfer track segments, or track support structures (such as theturntable assembly shown in FIG. 27A).

The previous description of the disclosed examples is provided to enableany person of ordinary skill in the art to make or use the disclosedmethods and apparatus. Various modifications to these examples will bereadily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the principles definedherein may be applied to other examples without departing from thespirit or scope of the disclosed method and apparatus. The describedembodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrativeand not restrictive and the scope of the invention is, therefore,indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoingdescription. All changes which come within the meaning and range ofequivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope. Skilledartisans may implement the described functionality in varying ways foreach particular application, but such implementation decisions shouldnot be interpreted as causing a departure from the scope of thedisclosed apparatus and methods. The steps of the method or algorithmmay also be performed in an alternate order from those provided in theexamples.

What is claimed is:
 1. A continuous safety system for coupling a user to an amusement attraction comprising: a first track; a second track that is separate from the first track; a junction box that accepts the first track and the second track, the junction box including a transition surface; and a safety mechanism having a support plate, the safety mechanism configured to couple with the user and travel along the first track, the support plate configured to cooperate with the transition surface of the junction box, wherein the safety mechanism is configured to be moveable between the first track and the second track within the junction box based on the support plate cooperating with the transition surface.
 2. A method for transferring a trolley on a first track to transfer to a second track comprising the steps of: bringing the first track and the second track within a first predetermined distance of one another; engaging a first latching mechanism coupled with the first track with a second latching mechanism coupled with the second track; engaging the trolley with the second latching mechanism; disengaging the first latching mechanism from the second latching mechanism; and separating the first track from the second track by a second predetermined distance. 